Dr. Abiy Ahmed sworn in as the new Premier

Dr. Abiy Ahmed, 42 is appointed as Ethiopia’s new Prime Minister by the House of Peoples’ Representatives (HPR) today (April 2).
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Abiy noted, “Today is a historic day. We bear witness to a peaceful transfer of power. Today our situation presents us with opportunities and challenges,” adding: “Taking lessons from our mistakes, we should work to bring about political stability, build a better and united Ethiopia.”
The new Prime Minister promised to prioritize moving forward the country’s economic growth; building democracy; enhancing unity in diversity; forging national consensus; fighting corruption; improving quality of education; as well as maintaining rule of law among others. He also expressed his readiness to work with Ethiopians abroad and opposition political parties
Mentioning Ethiopia as the founder of Pan-Africanism, the seat for the African Union, a prominent name among the founders of international organizations as well as a key player in regional, continental and global issues, Dr. Abiy noted that his Government will further commit to its foreign policy that undoubtedly reckon these facts and celebrates its underpinning principles of equality and mutual interest.
He added, “We will stand by our African brothers in general and our neighbors in particular, during good and bad times.” He also expressed his Government’s readiness to resolve differences with Eritrea, noting that the peoples of the two countries are “not only intertwined in interests but also in blood”.
The new Prime Minister also thanked the outgoing Premier Hailemariam Dessalegn for his decision to step down from his post as Prime Minister so as to become part of the solution for the political instability occurred in the country. This showcased a peaceful transition of power, which he said is, “exemplary to our continent.”
Dr Abiy was born in Jimma zone, Oromia Regional State and is the current Chairperson of the Oromo Peoples Democratic Organization (OPDO).
He earned his first degree in Computer Engineering, MA in Transformational Leadership and Change, MBA in Management and Leadership as well as PhD in Peace and Security. He served as Minister of Science and Technology, Director General of the Federal Science and Technology Center of Excellence, Director of the Information Network Security Agency – ኢመደኤ (INSA ) and other prominent positions